JP3545345B2 - Premix dispensing valve with pressure adjustment function - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention generally relates to a beverage dispensing device, and more specifically, but not exclusively, actively regulates the flow rate of the premix fluid passing therethrough and the pressure associated therewith, resulting in carbonation loss of the dispensed beverage. And a beverage dispensing valve assembly having an improved component configuration that prevents excessive foaming.
[0002]
[Related technologies]
Beverage dispensers featuring pre-mix dispensing valves have been a major competitive product in the market for over 60 years. The premix beverage dispenser allows the beverage flavored syrup to be mixed with plain or carbonated water before the formed premix fluid is supplied to the dispensing valve.
[0003]
In contrast, in the post-mix beverage dispenser, the beverage flavor syrup and the plain water and carbonated water are introduced separately and finally mixed in the post-mix valve. Post-mix beverage dispensers typically mix the desired beverage by a post-mix valve located within a large, stationary post-mix beverage dispenser, and these dispensers generally require simple water and Many of the beverage manufacturing processes need to be performed "on-site" in that they require connection to public water sources as a source of carbonated water.
[0004]
Conversely, if the beverage dispenser does not produce the desired beverage, and thus the beverage is "premixed" before being introduced into the premix beverage dispenser, the premix beverage will be the final beverage. Dispensing beverage products. Thus, where water is not available or unsatisfactory, a premix beverage dispenser is optimal. This feature also makes the premix dispenser extremely portable and relatively smaller than the post-mix beverage dispenser, which means that the premix dispenser can be used for sports and other outdoor events. That's why it's so popular.
[0005]
In the past, premix dispensing valves have had problems due to extreme fluid pressures throughout the assembly. Typically, the premix fluid enters the premix dispensing valve assembly at a high pressure, for example, from 413.685 (60) to 551.581 kPa (80 psi) (gauge), for example, 0 kpsi (0 psi) (gauge). Exits from the valve nozzle near local atmospheric pressure. Such a pressure drop occurs within a short distance and within a short time within the assembly. As a result of the change in pressure over time, carbon dioxide typically escapes from the carbonated premix fluid through effervescence or carbon dioxide is absorbed by the premix fluid.
[0006]
In particular, by realizing such a large and rapid pressure drop, many premix dispensing valves in the past will desirably foam and lose carbonic acid due to some primary factors. One such factor is due to the changing ambient temperature throughout the day, thereby changing the pressure of the premix fluid and cooling the premix fluid as the ambient temperature warms. In general, a second factor, known as "shock" foaming, occurs when the dispensing valve first opens and the internal pressure in the valve drops sharply from high static pressure to approximately ambient pressure, thereby causing the formation of carbon dioxide. The carbon escapes from the premix fluid, thus resulting in excessive and undesirable foaming.
[0007]
Accordingly, current premix dispensing valve assemblies feature compensators that prevent excessive foaming and loss of carbonic acid due to pressure fluctuations. Specifically, the premix fluid drops in pressure as it passes through the smooth and narrow inner surface of the compensator, thereby reducing carbon dioxide bubbling and loss. However, when the premix fluid enters the compensator, such valves lack the ability to interact with large and / or rapid pressure changes and lack the ability to regulate that pressure, so for current premix dispensing valves, carbonation of Foaming and losses are still a major problem. As a result, the compensator cannot actively compensate for these pressure changes, which often results in periodic bubbling and loss of carbonic acid.
[0008]
It is also a problem that the current dispensing valve cannot be easily adjusted or reset when subjected to large and / or sudden pressure changes. Adjusting the pressure requires holding the dispensing valve open with one hand and adjusting the screw located in the threaded passage with the other hand. On the other hand, the threaded passage connects the internal passage in the assembly, through which the premix fluid flows, to the outer surface of the dispensing valve housing.
[0009]
In particular, turning this screw allows changing the position of the compensator in the internal passage. Thus, changing the position of the compensator in the internal passage allows for adjusting the pressure in the current premix dispensing valve assembly. In short, adjusting or resetting significant pressure changes after disassembly of the dispensing valve assembly is often time consuming and labor intensive. In addition, current premix dispensing valves do not have the ability to actively control the effects of excessive foaming or loss of carbonic acid, as it is extremely difficult to regulate pressure changes.
[0010]
Thus, significant pressure changes and consequent flow changes of the premix fluid flowing through the assembly are activated so as to prevent carbonation foaming and loss of the dispensed beverage without manual adjustment. Adjustable, premixed beverage dispensing valve assemblies have been a challenge for many years.
[0011]
Summary of the Invention
According to the present invention, a premix dispensing valve assembly for a beverage dispenser is disposed within a housing having a housing having an inlet for supplying a premix fluid and an outlet communicating with the exterior of the housing. A compensator and an adjuster disposed within the housing. The adjuster is operatively connected to the housing inlet and is in communication with the compensator. The premix dispensing valve assembly further comprises a premix supply passage in the housing for communicating the premix fluid from the inlet of the housing to the regulator. The regulator exerts a damping effect on the high fluid pressure characteristic of the premix fluid as it enters the premix dispense valve assembly.
[0012]
Thus, integrating the regulator with the premix dispensing valve assembly with the compensator allows the premix fluid to maintain a constant pressure optimally, thereby preventing problems due to pressure changes. I do. In particular, the regulator is located in the housing of the regulator at the end opposite the inlet chamber, the contact member located in the chamber, and the housing, and is fixed to the housing of the regulator. And an elastic member disposed within the adjuster housing and secured to the anchor member at one end and secured to the contact member at the other end.
[0013]
In particular, the resilient member provides resistance to the premix fluid that is pressed against the contact member, thereby allowing the regulator to adjust the flow rate and pressure level of the premix fluid. The contact member also defines a hole approximately in the center of the contact member to facilitate flow of the premix fluid.
[0014]
The regulator further comprises a contact member guide disposed within the regulator housing between the controller housing and the contact member, wherein the contact member is adapted to be actuated when fluid force is applied to the contact member. Make it easy to move. A row of outlet holes is formed around the contact member guide to allow a variable amount of premix fluid to flow with changes in fluid pressure.
[0015]
The premix dispense valve assembly may further include a rear block assembly disposed within the housing and communicating with the inlet. The rear block assembly has an outlet and a shutoff valve assembly operably engaged with the outlet. The isolation valve assembly allows, in part, the premix fluid in the rear block assembly to maintain a constant pressure. Thus, the rear block assembly eliminates the need to decompress the entire premix beverage dispensing device when it is necessary to disassemble the special premix dispensing valve assembly.
[0016]
The premix dispensing valve assembly includes a plunger disposed within the compensator and movable from a first position sealing the outlet from the compensator to a second position exposing the outlet from the compensator. The compensator, on the other hand, includes a pilot valve assembly cooperatively engaged with the plunger to reduce the effect of the static pressure generated at the premix dispensing valve assembly. This compensator prevents carbonic acid loss and produces a controlled and smooth pressure drop to prevent foaming as the premix fluid exits the premix dispensing valve assembly and enters the cup below it. There is. Ultimately, the compensator and pilot valve assembly work in combination to create a controlled pressure drop in the premix fluid stream.
[0017]
The pilot valve assembly includes a pilot valve body, a lifting ring connected to the plunger, a pilot valve chamber formed by connecting the lifting ring to the pilot valve body, and a pilot valve disposed within the pilot valve chamber body. And Meanwhile, the pilot valve includes a pilot drum connected to the plunger, a sealing drum connected to the plunger below the pilot drum, and a sealing head formed at an end of the sealing drum.
[0018]
Accordingly, the pilot valve assembly further includes a head seat formed by the lower inner surface of the pilot valve body, wherein the sealing head of the sealing drum is located on the top of the head seat and is caused by the lifting operation of the plunger. It acts against the static pressure that is removed from the head seat and builds up in the premix dispensing valve assembly. The pilot valve assembly further includes a main seal disposed in an area formed by a central lower portion of the pilot valve body, and a main seat formed by a lower inner surface of the compensator housing.
[0019]
The main seal is located at the top of the main seat and is removed from the main seat by the lifting action of the plunger, thereby allowing a large amount of premix fluid to exit the outlet of the premix dispense valve assembly. The pilot valve assembly further comprises a guide plate located on the top of the pilot drum and connected to the plunger, whereby the pilot valve assembly is lifted in parallel with the plunger and the main seal is lifted from the top of the main seat. To allow a large amount of premix fluid to exit the outlet of the premix dispense valve assembly.
[0020]
Thus, one object of the present invention is to provide a premix dispensing valve assembly for a beverage dispenser, whereby it is optimal to integrate the regulator with the compensator so that the premix fluid is constant. The goal is to allow the pressure to be maintained, thereby preventing problems due to pressure changes. Still other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from a reading of the following description.
[0021]
[Preferred Embodiment]
As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed; however, these disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various forms. Should understand. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some parts may be exaggerated to show details of particular components or steps.
[0022]
As shown in FIGS. 1-5, the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 includes a housing 10, a nozzle 15, a rear block assembly 20, a premix supply passage 30, a regulator 35, and a compensator 36. Is provided. In this preferred embodiment, the compensator 36 comprises at one end thereof an outlet to the premix dispensing valve assembly 5, ie, a cylindrical housing 65 forming the nozzle 15, and a pressure compensator disposed within the housing 65. 70, a compensator sleeve 75 disposed between the pressure compensator 70 and the housing 65, a pilot valve assembly 86, disposed within the pressure compensator 70 and along a center line of the pressure compensator 70 and a pilot And a plunger 66 for opening and closing the valve assembly 86.
[0023]
The premix beverage dispenser (not shown) features a number of dispensing valves, whereby each of the dispensing valves typically includes a beverage flavor such as a cola, root beer or punch. Is assigned. By placing the cup below the dispensing valve and activating its nozzle, the valve dispenses the desired beverage flavor into the cup. Thus, the premix fluid for the desired beverage flavor is formed before entering the dispensing valve at high pressure and dispensed into the cup at approximately ambient pressure.
[0024]
In this preferred embodiment, the housing 10 for the premix dispense valve assembly 5 includes both a base and a rear wall 11, which are understood to be permanently secured using any suitable connection means. , To form a single unitary device (see FIG. 1). Along with the base and back wall 11, the housing 10 features a removable cover 12 having a top wall and side walls that can be removed from the base and back wall 11, particularly during cleaning or maintenance. Compensator 36, rear block assembly 20, premix supply passage mount 25, and actuator 40 are components that are fixedly mounted to housing 10 using any suitable connection means.
[0025]
In particular, the rear block assembly 20 is engagably connected to the outer surface of the housing 10. Rear block assembly 20 includes an internal chamber maintained at a constant pressure through a series of seals and locks. In particular, rear block assembly 20 includes an outlet 21 that allows premix fluid to flow from rear block assembly 20 to premix dispense valve assembly 5 (see FIG. 2). Further, the rear block assembly 20 provides a shut-off valve assembly 22 that allows to shut off the flow of the premix fluid by selectively sealing and opening the outlet 21.
[0026]
Thus, the rear block assembly 20 requires disassembly of a particular premix dispense valve assembly, particularly during cleaning or maintenance, since the premix fluid in its internal chamber maintains a constant pressure. When this is done, it is not necessary to depressurize the entire premix beverage dispensing device. In contrast, a valve assembly without the rear block component is fully depressurized, resulting in wasted beverage.
[0027]
The premix supply passage fitting 25 functions as a connector that allows premix fluid to flow from the rear block assembly 20 into the premix supply passage 30 through the housing 10. The premix supply passage mounting portion 25 is fixedly attached at one end to the inner surface of the housing 10 and connected at the other end to the premix supply passage 30 using any suitable means. Attached to housing 10 at one end, premix supply passage mount 25 provides a fusing support for premix supply passage 30 as it travels along its path within premix dispense valve assembly 5. In addition, the premix supply passage fitting 25 forms a seal that acts to prevent undesired premix fluid penetration at the connection between the premix supply passage 30 and the housing 10.
[0028]
Premix supply passage 30 comprises any suitable conduit for supplying premix fluid from rear block assembly 20 to regulator 35. On the other hand, the regulator 35 connects to the premix supply passage 30 using any suitable means.
[0029]
The regulator 35 is integrated within the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 to eliminate significant pressure fluctuations occurring in the premix supply passage 30 and to provide shock bubbling, fluctuations in ambient temperature, frequency of use of the beverage dispenser. And any significant pressure fluctuations occurring in the rear block assembly 20 due primarily to the spacing between uses thereof. The regulator 35 exerts a damping effect on the high fluid pressure characteristic of the premix fluid when entering the regulator 35 from the premix supply passage 30.
[0030]
Thus, the regulator 35 actively interacts with the incoming premix fluid and regulates the pressure of the fluid before the premix fluid flows into the compensator 36 to actively adjust the flow to a predetermined level. Regulating, thereby providing a constant flow rate despite large and / or sudden pressure fluctuations. Specifically, the adjuster 35 is disposed in the cylindrical housing 91, an inlet chamber 95 formed by the inner surface of the housing 91 at a position where the housing 91 connects to the premix supply passage 30, and the inlet chamber 95. Contact member 92 and an anchor member 94 disposed within housing 91 and secured to housing 91 at any other end opposite inlet chamber 95 using any suitable fastening means; An elastic member 93 disposed and secured at one end to the anchor member 94 using any suitable fastening means and secured at the other end to the contact member 92 (see FIG. 3).
[0031]
The regulator 35 further comprises a contact member guide 96 disposed within the housing 91 between the inner portion of the housing 91 and the contact member, such that when fluid force is applied to the contact member 92, the contact member 92 The inner surface of the contact member guide 96 is allowed to be longitudinally cut. In addition, a row of outlet holes 97 are formed around the contact member guide 96 to allow the premix fluid to flow.
[0032]
In operation, the premix fluid flows into the inlet chamber 95, as shown by the directional arrow 90. Next, the premix fluid flows into the contact member 92. The contact member 92 is supported by a resilient member 93, which in this preferred embodiment is a coil spring, and provides sufficient resistance to the premix fluid flowing in the inlet chamber 95.
[0033]
The contact member 92 defines a hole 92a substantially at the center of the contact member 92 to allow the premix fluid to flow therethrough. One skilled in the art will recognize other suitable forms of holes or series of holes formed around the contact member to facilitate the flow of the premix fluid therethrough. Thus, the premix fluid flows through holes 92 a around contact member guide 96 and through rows of outlet holes 97. Accordingly, the change in the amount of force applied to the contact member 92 by the premix fluid is proportional to the change in pressure of the incoming premix fluid.
[0034]
In particular, in response to a change in force, the contact member 92 moves along the inner surface of the contact member guide 96 until the fluid force is balanced by the opposing spring force of the elastic member 93. As the contact member 92 moves along the contact member guide 96 until it balances the force of the elastic member 93, the extent to which the hole area from the row of outlet holes 97 is covered or exposed varies, and the varying fluid pressure Allow the amount of premix fluid flowing therethrough to change, thereby regulating the pressure and flow rate of the fluid as it leaves the regulator 35. As shown by the directional arrow 99, the premix fluid eventually exits the regulator 35 through a hole 98 located in the lower portion of the regulator 35 and formed by the housing 91.
[0035]
Next, the premix fluid flows from the regulator 35 into the upper portion of the compensator 36. The flow of the premix fluid first enters the elongated chamber 61 formed by the inner surface of the housing 65. A compensator sleeve 75 is positioned within and aligned with the centerline of the housing 65 just behind the elongate chamber 61 and also has a jacket around a pressure compensator 70 disposed within the housing 65. I will provide a. Thus, the flow of the premix fluid flows from the elongate chamber 61 into the spatial gap formed between the pressure compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75.
[0036]
Such a spatial gap maintains tight tolerances and extends over a pre-set optimum distance d, such that the extended flat area further reduces the pressure by producing a controlled pressure drop. It is important to do so. Thus, integrating the compensator within the premix dispensing assembly will significantly reduce the frequency of carbonation foaming and loss. In this preferred embodiment, the pressure compensator 70 and compensator sleeve 75 are made of a ceramic material because the physical properties of the ceramic are optimal to maintain tight tolerances.
[0037]
Eventually, the flow of the premix fluid flows through the lower portion of the housing 65, where the housing 65 passes through the dispensing valve assembly 10. It should also be noted that the housing 10 provides a fusing support for the housing 65 and that the housing 65 is secured to the housing 10 using any suitable connection means. The nozzle 15 is defined by an area of the housing 65 directly below the dispensing valve 10 and has a nozzle passage 64 formed by the inner surface of the housing 65. Thus, the premix fluid flows from the lower portion of the housing 65 through the nozzle passage 64 and exits the premix dispense valve assembly 5 into the cup below.
[0038]
However, to accommodate the flow from the spatial gap to the nozzle 15, a relatively large opening is required to prevent foaming. Furthermore, the static pressure of the premix fluid (while the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 is closed) is higher than the flow pressure of the premix fluid (while the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 is open). Such initial static pressure exerts a significant amount of force against the force required to open any type of valve assembly and expose the large opening. When the fluid begins to flow through the opening, this initial resistance is eliminated, so that the pressure in the opening is in equilibrium with the pressure of the fluid flowing therethrough.
[0039]
To compensate for this initial resistance, pilot valve assembly 86 is integrated within premix dispensing valve assembly 5. Pilot valve assembly 86 is located within the lower portion of pressure compensator 70 and has plunger 66. Pilot valve assembly 86 includes pilot valves 78-80 disposed about plunger 66 and secured to plunger 66 using any suitable connection means.
[0040]
In this preferred embodiment, the pilot valves 78-80 feature a cylindrical pilot drum 78, a cylindrical sealing drum 79, and a conical sealing head 80 formed at one end of the sealing drum 79. I have. The pilot valve assembly 86 has a guide plate 77 fixed to the upper end of the pilot drum 78 so that the guide plate is disposed around and fixed to the plunger 66. Thus, as plunger 66 moves upward, guide plate 77 and pilot drum 78 span the distance provided by the gap between guide plate 77 and a lifting ring 76 located directly above guide plate 77. Move upward along with the plunger 66.
[0041]
Pilot valve assembly 86 defines a pilot valve chamber body defined by a lifting ring 76 from above and a central portion and a lower portion of the pilot valve chamber body such that the upper surface of pilot valve body 81 can be of any suitable shape. A pilot valve body 81 and a pilot passage 83 through which the premix fluid flows along its path from the pilot valve chamber 90 to the nozzle passage 64, using a secure fixing means to be secured to the lower surface of the lifting ring 76. Is further provided. Accordingly, the pilot valve chamber 90 is formed by the inner surface of the pilot valve assembly body, and more specifically, as a volume space surrounded by the inner surface of the lifting ring 76 from above and by the inner surface of the pilot valve body 81 from below. Is defined.
[0042]
Thus, pilot valve 78-80 is independent of pilot valve 81 until guide plate 77 contacts lifting ring 76, at which point the entire pilot valve assembly 86 begins to move alongside plunger 66. It moves along with the plunger 66. Specifically, the pilot valves 78 to 80 are formed between the guide plate 77 and the lifting ring 76 until the guide plate 77 at the top of the pilot drum 78 contacts the lifting ring 76 and lifts the lifting ring 76. The movement continues over the distance of the created gap. On the other hand, the gap distance is preset so that the escape of the premix fluid from the pilot valve chamber 90 allows a sufficient time to reduce the pressure of the premix fluid.
[0043]
Pilot valve assembly 86 further includes a main seal 85 disposed about a lower central portion of pilot valve body 81. Further, the main seal 85 is disposed in a region formed by the lower outer surface of the pilot valve body 81 and the lower inner surface of the pressure compensator 70. Thus, when the pilot valve assembly 86 is in the closed position, the main seal 85 and the sealing head 80 cooperate to create a spatial gap formed between the pressure compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75. Stop the flow of the premix fluid from entering the nozzle passage 64 (see FIG. 4).
[0044]
In particular, while in the closed position, the main seal 85 engages a corresponding main seat 67 formed by the upper inside surface of the nozzle portion of the housing 65, thereby being required to prevent foaming. Forming a seal against a large opening. In the same manner, while in the closed position, the sealing head 80 engages a corresponding head seat 87 formed by the lower inside surface of the pilot valve body 81, thereby providing a pilot passage 83 with respect to the pilot passage 83. Thus, a seal relatively smaller than the main seal 85 is formed.
[0045]
Thus, in effect, first opening the seal between the sealed head 80 and the head seat 87 lowers the initial static pressure of the premix fluid and causes the plunger 66 to exert a force at least an order of magnitude less. In operation, the main seal 85 of the pilot valve assembly 86 is lifted from its corresponding main seat 67, thereby helping to open large openings. Thus, while in this closed state, the pressure of the premix fluid in the pilot valve chamber 90 and in the adjacent area above the main seat 85 rises sharply, typically from 413.685 to 413.855. The overall static pressure of the premix dispense valve assembly 5, not limited to 60-80 psi (gauge). For this reason, as described above, the force required to open the main seal 85 against this static pressure becomes extremely large.
[0046]
The pilot valve assembly 86 alleviates the need for this force by allowing the much smaller seal formed by the sealing head 80 and head seat 87 to open first, thereby reducing the premix fluid. The static pressure eventually drops to a much lower flow pressure, typically about ambient pressure. In this way, once the pressure of the premix fluid has dropped, it is more likely than the force required to lift the main seal 85 to overcome the effects due to static pressure without such a pressure reduction effect. The large main seal 85 can be lifted relatively easily, thereby providing a large opening outlet for the large amount of premix fluid required to fill the lower cup.
[0047]
In operation, the pilot valves 77-80 move upward with the plunger 66 so that the pilot valves 77-80 move to the plunger 66 over the distance provided by the air gap between the guide plate 77 and the lifting ring 76. It is fixed. This gap allows the sealing drum 78 and sealing head 80 to be lifted from the engagement surface of the head seat 87. Once the sealed head 80 has been lifted from the head seat 87, the premix fluid in the pilot valve chamber 90 flows downward through the pilot passage 83 and begins to enter the primary outlet or nozzle passage 64.
[0048]
Also, when the pilot valve assembly 86 is first closed, the premix fluid flows from the spatial gap formed between the pressure compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75 until the pilot valve 80 is lifted until the sealed head 80 is lifted. The gathering within the chamber 90 also needs to be particularly described. Thus, when the premix fluid first escapes from the pilot valve assembly 90, it still reduces the ambient pressure of the premix fluid that accumulates in the pilot valve chamber 90 and reduces the pressure of the premix fluid in such spatial voids, Thereby, such a spatial gap is communicably connected to the pilot valve chamber 90 through a small split network provided in the pilot valve body 81.
[0049]
Next, in the same manner as when lifting the pilot valves 78 to 80, the entire pilot valve assembly 86 is provided with a gap formed between the lower surface of the compensator 70 from above and the upper surface of the lifting ring 76 from below. After the guide plate 77 contacts the lifting ring 76 over a distance of 68, it begins to move upward alongside the plunger 66 (see FIGS. 4 and 5). In particular, as the plunger 66 continues to move upward, the lifting ring 76 is then connected to the plunger 66 by the guide plate 77 so that the lifting ring 76 is pulled upward.
[0050]
On the other hand, when the lifting ring 76 moves upward, it engages with other parts of the pilot valve chamber body, particularly the main seal 85 partially disposed within the pilot valve chamber body, and likewise lifts. Thus, finally, the main seal 85 is lifted from the main seat 67 until the large opening is completely exposed (see FIG. 5). Thus, with the pilot valve assembly 86 fully open, the remaining bulk of the premix fluid will pass through the main seal 85, which opens from the spatial gap formed between the compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75, and the housing 65 Down from the nozzle 15 into the nozzle assembly 64 and into the cup below.
[0051]
A specific example of the pressure reducing effect of the pilot valve assembly is as follows. That is, a controlled flow is set by allowing the premix fluid to flow through a 0.006 inch spatial gap between the compensator and the compensator sleeve. Accordingly, a relatively large opening of about 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) in diameter is required to prevent the premix fluid from foaming as it exits the spatial void. If there is no depressurization effect, a 6.80389 kg (15 inch) opening at 12.7 mm (0.5 inch) opening will lift the valve assembly which acts against the static pressure of the premix fluid and seals the opening. Pounds of force are required.
[0052]
On the other hand, by utilizing the decompression effect, the force required to initially lift the components of the sealed head in the pilot valve from the corresponding head seat is less than one pound. Thus, once the effects of the initial static pressure resistance have decayed once in the pilot valve chamber, allow the main seal to be lifted from the corresponding main seat and allow a large amount of premixed fluid to be 12.7 mm (0.5 mm). The force required to keep the other pilot valve assembly open to allow it to flow down through the 5 inch opening is less than about 1.0 pounds.
[0053]
Further, a plunger 66 disposed within and along the center line of the pressure compensator 70 is subjected to an upward force by an actuator 40 disposed within the premix dispensing valve assembly 5. Is done.
[0054]
In particular, the actuator 40, the solenoid in this preferred embodiment, is secured to the side wall formed by the inner surface of the housing 10 using any suitable connection means (see FIG. 1). One skilled in the art should emphasize that mechanical, electrical or other suitable and equivalent actuator embodiments will be readily understood with respect to the solenoids described above and in alternatives to the solenoids. . When the actuator 40 is actuated, the actuator arm 45 is lifted up and pushed by one end of the first lever arm 50, whereby the actuator arm 45 is connected to the one end by the connector pin 100. On the other hand, an upward movement at one end of the first lever arm 50 provides a downward pushing movement at one end of the second lever arm 55 at the other end.
[0055]
The other end of the second lever arm 55 is connected to a plunger head 67 disposed on an upper portion of the plunger 66 by using any appropriate connection means. Thus, the downward force applied by the first lever arm 50 produces an upward lifting force alongside the other end and the plunger head, which ultimately results in the plunger 66 Allow to lift valves 78-80.
[0056]
A lever arm mount 60 is secured to the upper portion of the compensator 36 and is provided to support the first and second lever arms 50, 55 during operation. In particular, in this preferred embodiment, the lever arm mounting portion 60 includes a passage portion that supports the first and second lever arms 50 and 55, and a disk portion that secures the lever arm mounting portion 60 to the compensator 36. One adjacent member. The first lever arm 50 is attached to the passage by a fulcrum pin 101 between the flanges.
[0057]
Specifically, when the actuator 45 is lifted upward and pressed against one end of the first lever arm 50, the first lever arm 50 is connected to a fulcrum pin mounted on a flange of the mounting portion 60 of the lever arm. It pivots around 101, thereby providing a downward force on the first lever arm 50 at the second lever arm 55. In the same manner, a second fulcrum (not shown) in the body of the lever arm mounting portion 60 connects the downward movement at one end of the second lever arm 55 to the plunger head 67. At the other end.
[0058]
Further, the lower surface of the disk portion of the lever arm mounting portion 60 intersects the upper surface of the compensator 36 and is fixed to the upper surface using any suitable connecting means. In this manner, the passage portion of the lever arm attachment portion 60 is fixed to the compensator 36 via the disk portion.
[0059]
Unlike the premix dispense valve assembly 5, the pressure in today's premix valve assemblies must be readjusted every time the pressure fluctuates significantly. On the other hand, readjusting these premix valve assemblies involves a cumbersome and laborious way of manually adjusting the screws and repeatedly checking the effect of such adjustments.
[0060]
Conversely, compensator 36 functions as the primary flow control for premix dispensing valve assembly 5 when optimally integrated with regulator 35 and rear block assembly 20. More importantly, integrating the regulator 35 with the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 just prior to the compensator 36 allows the premix fluid to maintain a constant pressure, thereby providing a carbonated solution. The purpose is to prevent loss and excessive foaming. Ultimately, this unique combination of regulator 35 and compensator 36 reduces the high pressure generated in assembly 5 to approximately ambient pressure, thus actively controlling the flow at the valve, thereby , No need to readjust pressure and flow to be constant.
[0061]
More specifically, dispensing valve assembly 5 features an electrical switch, such as a push button, integrated within the design of the assembly (not shown). Such a switch may be used by the user to first activate the actuator 40 and ultimately to activate the pilot valve assembly 36, in combination with the regulator 35, to accumulate or reduce ambient temperature during use of the beverage dispenser. It is possible to adjust the high pressure that rises and builds up when cooling the premix fluid. On the other hand, many of today's premix valve assemblies feature only a compensator. Such compensators typically require actuation by manual actuation of the lever, and thus do not feature automatic actuators.
[0062]
Further, since such compensators do not integrate and cooperate with regulators, compensators in today's premix valve assemblies can reach 130 psi (gauge), but typically 413 gauge. It is subject to high pressures in the range of, but not limited to, 60-80 psi (gauge). Such high pressure leads to periodic foaming and loss of carbonic acid.
[0063]
Alternatively, the compensator 36 no longer needs to compensate for a wide range of flow rates and pressure build up. This is because this range is narrowed by the interactive damping and adjusting capabilities of the adjuster 35. Thus, the premix fluid exits the regulator 35 and enters the compensator 36 at a constant flow rate and a low pressure of 10-20 psi (gauge) of 68.9476-137.895 kPa (gauge). enter. Thus, the pressure drop across compensator 36 is significantly less and overall constant. Any change in the pressure drop at the compensator 36 depends on the interactive capabilities of the regulator 36 and the spatial gap between the compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75 depends on the material of the compensator 70 and the compensator sleeve 75. It depends on whether it is characterized by tolerances or differences in surface defects due to the quality of the surface. However, such pressure changes are negligible compared to the extreme pressure fluctuations experienced by current premix valve assemblies that do not have a constant means for active flow control and feature only compensators.
[0064]
Compensator 36 provides a residual pressure of 10-20 psi (gauge) as the premix fluid enters compensator 36 as the premix fluid exits compensator 36 into nozzle passage 64. It acts to lower the pressure to the surrounding pressure. The compensator 36 has the effect of producing a smooth and controlled pressure drop in its spatial gap, preventing carbonic acid loss and foaming. Further, the pressure reducing effect of the pilot valve assembly 86 eliminates the problems caused by the high static pressure, thereby acting to prevent the occurrence of shock foaming. The reduced pressure effect of the pilot valve assembly 86 also allows the plunger 66 to be lifted out of the large opening and reduce the work of the actuator 40, which is required to prevent foaming.
[0065]
Further, the rear block assembly 20 is incorporated within the premix dispensing valve assembly 5 so that during maintenance or cleaning, the entire premix beverage dispensing device does not need to be depressurized. In particular, because the premix fluid in its internal chamber maintains a constant pressure, the rear block assembly 20 allows the premix dispense valve assembly 5 to be quickly actuated when disassembly is required. However, a controlled flow is easily achieved in the assembly 5 without loss of foaming or carbonation.
[0066]
As an example, once the actuator 40 is activated, the premix fluid flows from the rear block assembly 20 into the premix supply passage 30. The premix fluid flows over the premix feed passage 30 and enters the regulator 35 at a pressure of about 60 psi (gauge). However, the interactive damping and regulating effect provided by the regulator 35 on the premix fluid flow serves to significantly reduce the exit pressure. Thus, the premix fluid flows from the regulator 35 into the compensator 36 at a pressure of about 20 psi (gauge). The compensator 36 and the pilot valve assembly 86 integrated within the lower portion of the compensator 36 combine to create a controlled pressure drop in the premix fluid flow, thereby providing a premix fluid When exits from the compensator 36 into the nozzle passage 64, it acts to reduce the residual pressure to approximately ambient pressure. Next, the premix fluid exits the premix dispense valve assembly 5 from the nozzle passage 64 and is dispensed into the cup below.
[0067]
Although the present invention has been described with respect to the above embodiments, such description is for illustrative purposes only, and as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, there are numerous alternatives, equivalents, and varying degrees of variation. Modifications fall within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is not limited in any respect to the above description, but is to be limited only by the appended claims.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a partially cutaway perspective view showing a beverage dispensing valve assembly.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing components inside a beverage dispensing valve through which a premix fluid flows.
FIG. 3 is a cutaway view showing a regulator in the beverage dispensing valve.
FIG. 4 is a cutaway view showing the pilot valve assembly in a closed configuration.
FIG. 5 is a cutaway view showing the pilot valve assembly in an open configuration.

Claims (23)

A premix dispensing valve assembly for a beverage dispenser, wherein:
A housing having an inlet;
A compensator provided in the housing and having an outlet communicating with the outside of the housing;
An adjuster provided in the housing, connected to the inlet of the housing and communicating with the compensator;
A sealing member, comprising: a plunger located in the compensator; and a plunger actuator for moving the plunger from a first position sealing the outlet of the compensator to a second position exposing the outlet of the compensator. Components,
A premix dispensing valve assembly, comprising: a pilot valve assembly, said pilot valve assembly having a pilot valve body and a lifting ring connected to a plunger. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 1, further comprising a premix supply passage provided in the housing for communicating the premix fluid from the inlet of the housing to the regulator. The compensator includes a compensator housing, a compensator sleeve within the compensator housing, and a pressure compensator provided within the compensator sleeve to cause a controlled pressure drop within the premix dispense valve assembly. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 1 comprising: 4. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 3, wherein said compensator and compensator sleeve are comprised of a ceramic material. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 1, wherein said pilot valve assembly further comprises a pilot valve chamber body formed by connecting a lifting ring to the pilot valve body. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 5, wherein said pilot valve chamber assembly further comprises a pilot valve disposed within a pilot valve chamber body. 7. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 6, wherein said pilot valve further comprises a pilot drum connected to a plunger. 8. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 7, wherein said pilot valve further comprises a sealing drum connected to a plunger below the pilot drum. 9. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 8, wherein said sealing drum further comprises a sealing head formed at an end of said sealing drum. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 9, wherein the pilot valve assembly further comprises a head seat formed by a lower inner surface of the pilot valve body. The sealing head of the sealing drum is located at the top of the head seat and via a lifting action of a plunger acting against static pressure accumulated in the premix dispensing valve assembly from the head seat. 11. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 10, wherein the premix dispensing valve assembly is spaced from the head seat. 12. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 11, wherein said pilot valve assembly further comprises a main seal disposed within an area formed by a lower central portion of the pilot valve body. 13. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 12, wherein said pilot valve assembly further comprises a main seat formed by a lower inner surface of a compensator housing. 14. The main seal is located at the top of the main seat and is spaced from the main seat via a lifting action of the plunger, thereby allowing a large amount of premix fluid to exit the outlet of the dispensing valve assembly. Premix dispensing valve assembly. 15. The premix dispensing valve assembly of claim 14, wherein the pilot valve assembly further comprises a guide plate located on top of the pilot drum and connected to the plunger, thereby lifting the pilot valve assembly side by side with the plunger. A pre-mix dispensing valve assembly that allows the main seal to be lifted from the top of the main seat, thereby allowing large amounts of pre-mix fluid to exit the outlet of the pre-mix dispensing valve assembly. 2. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 1, wherein the controller comprises:
A regulator housing having an inlet chamber;
A contact member disposed in the inlet chamber;
An anchor member disposed within the regulator housing and secured to the regulator housing at an opposite end of the inlet chamber;
A resilient member disposed within the regulator housing and secured at one end to the anchor member and secured to the contact member at the other end, the resilient member pressing against the contact member. A premix dispensing valve assembly that provides a force, thereby allowing the regulator to regulate the flow rate and pressure level of the premix fluid. 17. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 16, wherein the contact member defines a hole that allows the premix fluid to flow therethrough. 17. The premix component of claim 16, wherein the adjuster further comprises a contact member guide disposed within the adjuster housing between the adjuster housing and the contact member to facilitate movement of the contact member therein. Valve giving assembly. 18. The premix component of claim 17, wherein said contact member guide defines a plurality of outlet holes formed around said contact member guide, whereby premix fluid flows through said outlet holes with varying fluid pressure. Valve giving assembly. A premix dispensing valve assembly for the beverage dispensing device of claim 1, wherein:
A rear block assembly disposed within the housing;
The rear block assembly is in communication with the inlet of the housing, thereby exerting a constant pressure on the premix fluid and maintaining the pressure when the premix dispensing valve assembly is disassembled. 21. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 20, further comprising a premix supply passage disposed within said housing for communicating premix fluid from a rear block assembly to a regulator. 22. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 21, wherein said rear block assembly further comprises an outlet in communication with the premix dispense valve assembly. 23. The premix dispense valve assembly of claim 22, wherein the rear block assembly further comprises a shutoff valve assembly located within the rear block assembly in operable engagement with an outlet of the rear block assembly. The valve assembly is movable from a first position sealing the outlet from the premix dispensing valve assembly to a second position exposing the outlet from the premix dispensing valve assembly, whereby the rear block assembly is premixed. A pre-mix dispensing valve assembly that allows to shut off fluid flow.

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